A pressure washing contract can be the difference between a sparkling driveway and a costly dispute over water damage. Before you sign, you need to understand what you're agreeing to—and what protections you actually have. Here's what every homeowner should verify.
Scope of Work Must Be Detailed and Specific
The contract should describe exactly what surfaces will be cleaned, not just "exterior pressure washing." Is the contractor cleaning the driveway, siding, roof, gutters, or all of the above? What PSI (pounds per square inch) will they use on each surface? This matters because soft washing (lower pressure, chemical-based) protects delicate surfaces like roofing shingles and stucco, while high-pressure jets work better on concrete.
Ask for a site walkthrough before signing. This prevents disagreements later when the contractor claims certain areas were "not included" or damaged by existing conditions.
Insurance and Licensing Verification
Your contractor must carry current liability insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance naming you as an additional insured—this protects you if their equipment damages your property or a neighbor's. Minimum coverage is typically $1 million for general liability.
Check if they're licensed and bonded in your state. Requirements vary: some states require licensing for pressure washing, others don't. Bonding means the state can reimburse you if the contractor abandons the job or commits fraud. Request their license number and verify it directly with your state's licensing board.
Price Breakdown and Payment Terms
A contract should itemize costs by service. For example:
- Driveway cleaning: $300–$500
- House siding: $400–$800
- Roof cleaning: $600–$1,200 (soft wash only)
- Gutter cleaning: $150–$300
Watch for vague line items like "exterior cleaning—$1,500." Request a breakdown. Also clarify what happens if additional work is needed on-site. Does the contractor get your written approval before charging extra, or can they add charges afterward?
Payment terms should specify when money is due. Avoid contracts requiring 100% upfront payment. A common split is 25–50% deposit upon signing and the remainder upon completion. Never pay the full balance until you inspect the finished work.
Water Damage and Surface Liability
Pressure washing can damage siding, remove grout, dent aluminum, and harm landscaping if done improperly. The contract must state what the contractor is responsible for if damage occurs. Look for language like:
"Contractor assumes full liability for damage caused by improper technique or PSI exceeding manufacturer recommendations."
Also ask what happens if water enters your home, your foundation cracks, or landscaping is harmed. A reputable contractor will take responsibility for their mistakes, not claim it's a "pre-existing condition."
Timeline and Completion Guarantees
The contract should include a start date and estimated completion date. Pressure washing a typical two-story house takes 4–8 hours; a roof takes 6–10 hours. If weather delays are common in your area, the contract should specify how reschedules are handled.
Some contractors offer a "satisfaction guarantee"—a clause stating they'll return and re-clean areas you're unhappy with at no charge within a set timeframe (usually 30 days). This is a strong sign of confidence in their work.
Chemical and Environmental Considerations
If soft washing is part of the job, the contract should disclose which chemicals will be used. Some communities restrict certain cleaning agents near wells or protected water systems. Your contractor should be aware of local environmental regulations and include them in the agreement.
Ask if runoff will be directed away from gardens, pools, and septic systems. Responsible contractors don't let dirty water damage your landscape or contaminate groundwater.
Before You Sign
Review the contract in full. Cross out anything you disagree with and initial the changes. Both you and the contractor should sign and date the final version. Keep a copy for your records.
If you're comparing multiple contractors, services like Mercoly let you review and compare trusted pressure and soft washing providers side by side, making it easier to spot differences in scope, pricing, and coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can pressure washing damage my roof? Yes—high-pressure washing (above 1,500 PSI) can strip granules, crack tiles, and void your shingles' warranty. Always require soft washing for asphalt or composite roofs.
Q: What PSI is safe for house siding? Vinyl and wood siding typically require 1,200–1,500 PSI maximum; stucco and brick need 1,000 PSI or less. A reputable contractor will adjust pressure by surface type.
Q: How long does the cleaned surface stay clean? Driveways typically stay clean 12–24 months; siding lasts 2–3 years; roofs 3–5 years if regularly maintained.
Find a trusted pressure and soft washing contractor in your area today using Mercoly's comparison tool.